5 Ways Apple Improved The App Store

1. Apple's new background scheme is all white. That move apparently was made to have the site reflect the personality of the brick-and-mortar stores and keep the branding similar. Previously, the site was steel-blue/gray.

2. App logos are bigger. Once the desired app is located, its logo is still found at the top left of the page but its size has increased, and the Buy button -- also larger -- is now right under that logo. Making it easier for customers to buy things has never hurt a vendor. Usability is one of Apple's hallmarks.

3. Descriptions are easier to spot. The app's description is now at the top of the page, next to the logo. That lets potential buyers see what the app can do and at a glance decide if it's desirable. Developers should note that the description is shortened by default to the first two lines; although the description can be expanded by a user, it's wise to have the first two lines of an app's description be killer. The developer and app information have been moved to a spot below the logo, followed by customer ratings.

4. Like this? Try that. More apps by the same developer are listed automatically. So if you like one developer's game, you might want to try another one. Nice bit of promotion.

5. Simplified reviews. Beneath it all are the customer reviews, which are displayed in a simplified manner: Large buttons permit shifting between reviews of the version now available and all previous versions. Reviews can be sorted by most helpful as well.